“We were then satisfied that, with proper lubrication and better adjustments, a little more power could be expected. The completion of the motor according to drawing was, therefore, proceeded with at once.”
- Wilbur Wright: April 16, 1867 – May 30, 1912
- Orville Wright: August 19, 1871 – January 30, 1948
- American
- Aviation Pioneers, Inventors, Engineers, First to Achieve Powered, Controlled Flight
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Quote
“We were then satisfied that, with proper lubrication and better adjustments, a little more power could be expected. The completion of the motor according to drawing was, therefore, proceeded with at once.”
Explanation
This quote demonstrates the Wright brothers’ methodical and iterative approach to engineering. Rather than being discouraged by initial shortcomings in engine performance, they recognized that with “proper lubrication and better adjustments,” incremental improvements were achievable. Their response was not to abandon the effort or radically redesign the motor, but to refine the existing design and move forward based on evidence and practical reasoning. This highlights a mindset rooted in calibrated optimism and disciplined problem-solving.
The phrase “satisfied that…a little more power could be expected” reflects their realistic expectations—they weren’t seeking dramatic leaps, but measurable gains. In an era where even a few extra horsepower could determine whether a machine would lift off the ground, these marginal improvements were critical. Proceeding “according to drawing” indicates their commitment to documentation, precision, and adherence to tested plans, reinforcing their reputation as meticulous engineers.
Today, this quote exemplifies how true innovation often comes through refinement, not revolution. In software development, biomedical engineering, or product design, success frequently hinges on diagnosing minor flaws and making incremental changes. Orville’s words remind us that advancement is often the result of steady, thoughtful iteration, rather than dramatic reinvention—a valuable lesson in both technology and life.
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